May is Mental Health Awareness Month
During May, the CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and other agencies and organizations will work to raise awareness of mental health.
Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Each year coalitions, community organizations, prevention and treatment professionals, and national groups elevate their critical work in this area. This may include:
Sharing existing support systems and resources
Highlighting relevant data and disparities across populations
Educating their communities on the importance of acknowledging mental illness
Working to reduce stigma
Advocating for policies and greater care access and options to support individuals with mental illness and their families.
This month is also a good time for care providers and professionals to reflect on our own wellbeing. Mental Health America offers free screening tools where you can access your own Check up from the Neck up.
Need some tips on how you advocating for your own mental health? The National Institute of Mental Health offers these tips on taking care of your mental health and advocating for your self-care:
Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day.
Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
Try an activity which is relaxing for you! Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Think of other activities that could be relaxing for you as well such as taking a walk, a hot bath or reading.
Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much.
Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific!
Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts.
Stay connected. Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
Resources, social media campaigns, extensive toolkits, and help can all be found on the following pages as we prepare to observe Mental Health Month in May!
Your local libraries are also a wonderful resource to tap into for all the titles across age spans they can provide to the community!
Whether you are an experienced prevention professional or new to the field and are looking for assistance in ways you can observe Mental Health Month in your local coalition or community, TTASC is here to support you in your endeavors and provide technical assistance. You can reach us anytime at ttascprevention@gmail.com